Kinshasa, July 23, 2025 - The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has once again demonstrated to the world that it is ready to grow, modernize, and improve the lives of its people, despite the numerous challenges it faces. At a major United Nations meeting in New York, the DRC presented its progress and plans to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
From July 14 to 23, the UN hosted a high-level political forum on the SDGs. During the event, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning, Mr. Guylain Nyembo, spoke on behalf of the Congolese Government. He explained that DRC’s national development efforts are guided by two main tools:
The Government Action Programme
Both tools aim to bring transformation to the country by improving people’s lives through health, education, energy, and job creation.
Strong Growth Despite the Challenges
According to Mr. Nyembo, DRC’s economy has stayed strong. The country expects over 5% growth in 2025, thanks to progress in several sectors:
Mining
Agriculture
Telecommunications
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DRC Presents Its Vision for Transformation and Peace at UN SDG Forum
Jul 24, 2025
May 15, 2026
5 min read
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Kinshasa, July 23, 2025 - The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has once again demonstrated to the world that it is ready to grow, modernize, and improve the lives of its people, despite the numerous challenges it faces. At a major United Nations meeting in New York, the DRC presented its progress and plans to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
From July 14 to 23, the UN hosted a high-level political forum on the SDGs. During the event, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning, Mr. Guylain Nyembo, spoke on behalf of the Congolese Government. He explained that DRC’s national development efforts are guided by two main tools:
The Government Action Programme
Both tools aim to bring transformation to the country by improving people’s lives through health, education, energy, and job creation.
Strong Growth Despite the Challenges
According to Mr. Nyembo, DRC’s economy has stayed strong. The country expects over 5% growth in 2025, thanks to progress in several sectors:
Mining
Agriculture
Telecommunications
Infrastructure
Alongside this growth, the government has increased both local and international investment in social services, especially in:
Health
Education
Energy
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He proudly mentioned two major achievements
Free primary education for children
Universal health coverage beginning with key services in major cities
Real Improvements in People’s Lives
The speech also showed that government policies are working. According to the Planning Ministry:
85% of births are now assisted by trained medical workers
Infant and child mortality dropped by 42% in 10 years (from 148 to 104 per 1,000)
Nearly 60% of the population now has access to clean drinking water
New renewable energy projects could double electricity supply by 2030
These results show that Congo is on the right path, even while facing hard realities in the region.
Conflict in the East Slows Development
Despite the success stories, Mr. Nyembo gave a strong warning. He explained that Congo’s growth is still being hurt by:
Armed conflicts in the East
Climate problems
Uncontrolled migration
Heavy dependence on raw materials
One example is the suspension of the 145 Territories Development Program (PDL-145T) in conflict areas. Because of violence, many children are also suffering from malnutrition and delayed growth, according to new health data.
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These problems are common across Central Africa, where instability makes it harder for countries to reach development goals.
A Call for Peace and Fair Financing
Speaking to the international community, Mr. Nyembo made a powerful appeal:
As in Seville, the Democratic Republic of Congo calls for united action, one that connects peace, security, and the environment. We also need real financial support.”
He called on world leaders to fulfill their promises, especially those made during the Seville Commitment and through climate finance deals. DRC, like many developing countries, needs this help to stay strong in the face of climate change and global challenges.
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DRC: A Committed Global Partner
By speaking clearly at the UN, DRC showed that it is not just waiting for help, it is leading. It wants to be part of global solutions and be recognized as a trusted partner in the 2030 Agenda.
The country also reminded the world of the urgent need to fix the development finance system. Without fair funding, poor nations cannot build peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable futures for their people.
From Kinshasa to New York, Congo’s message is clear: The path to peace and prosperity must include justice, respect, and shared responsibility.
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